This species exists most of the time as a network of fungal cells (mycelium) in the soil, digesting and decomposing organic matter. When ready to reproduce, the mycelium forms the mushroom aboveground—this is the reproductive structure. Spores are produced in the gills and are released to begin new mycelia elsewhere.

Human connections:

Mushrooms decorate nature the way wildflowers do, adding to our pleasure on hikes. The scarlet waxy cap is a cute mushroom, and it's well-named. It does look like a little red cap, and the gills really are waxy. (Rub them between your fingers, and you'll have proof.)

Ecosystem connections:

This is one of the many fungus species that live on decaying plant materials. It and other such saprobic fungi play an incredibly important role in breaking down the tough materials plants are made of and returning those nutrients to the soil.

The honey mushroom has a honey-colored, sticky cap with black hairs over the center, and a stalk with a whitish ring. It grows in clusters at the bases of trees or stumps, especially oaks, and over buried wood.

Regs and Areas

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